Entry requirements

There are usually no entry requirements to become an administration officer as skills are learned on the job.

Secondary education

NCEA Level 1 in English and maths is usually required to become an administration officer. However, many employers prefer staff to have at least NCEA Level 2 English and maths. Keyboard and computing skills are also useful.

Personal requirements

Administration officers need to be:

good time managers and able to prioritise and multitask

good communicators

skilled writers

able to use a variety of computer software

able to work well in a team environment

able to show initiative

friendly and approachable

discreet and diplomatic when dealing with confidential issues

problem-solvers.

"There are so many menial tasks that can make up your day. If you get bogged down in that it can become too much – you’ve got to decide what’s important. If you can’t do that, you’ve got to get someone to help you."

Find out more about training

Experience with different computer applications is useful for administration officers

Administration officers may deal with people's personal information, so need to be discreet

What are the chances of getting a job?

Average

Chances of getting a job as an administration officer are average for people without experience but good for those with experience.

Experienced administration officers are in demand because:

increasing turnover of administration officers as the economy picks up

employers want administration officers who can multi-task and help their organisation save money, for instance with purchasing plans.

Opportunities for new administration officers who are willing to start in temporary roles

Although opportunities are more difficult to find for new administration officers, entry level positions still become available as some employers prefer to train a new staff member at a lower pay rate than pay more for an experienced worker.

If you are new to this work, you may need to start with a part-time or temporary administration role to demonstrate your worth to an employer.

Many organisations employ administration officers

Most organisations employ administration staff, so you can work for a variety of employers including: